A very common pest throughout many homes in the United States is the boxelder bug. This particular insect looks much like a lightning bug, and it is black and red in color. They can grow to be about half an inch long, and are not something you’ll want residing in your humble abode.

The boxelder gets its name from their favored source of sustenance – the juices of the boxelder tree. Wondering why they’d choose to occupy your boxelder tree-free home? Well, because it’s warm and cozy, of course! They’ll most likely come creeping in around autumn, just in time to make your house their winter shelter. If you’re not careful, not only will a few come, but they’ll bring their friends; some households are harboring hundreds of boxelders, and these bugs will overstay their welcome! In fact, the warm temperatures of your home will serve as a superior breeding ground. They’ll find their way into your home, usually through open doors, windows, and cracks in the walls, and they’ll retreat to a warm, sunny spot on your floor or your walls. They’re not very polite houseguests, either. Boxelders leave rather annoying droppings, which can stain your linens and curtains. They don’t bite, though; however, their piercing, sucking mouths can be quite the nuisance.

Along with pesticides and/or a visit from your exterminator, a smart way to thin out the larger infestations is to vacuum up as many as you can. As soon as you vacuum one up, you’ll see most likely five more, but don’t grow weary; if all else fails, in spring, they’ll come out of their crevices in search of trees and places on which they can lay their eggs. Call your exterminator before it’s too late, and that place becomes your house!